A Healthy Beginning at Cachet Village Animal Hospital in Markham

At Cachet Village Animal Hospital, we want to help make your experience with your new puppy or kitten as positive and playful as possible.

Here are a few important things you should know if you have a new puppy or kitten or are considering getting one soon.

First Checkup

As soon as you get a new puppy or kitten, you should schedule an appointment with our veterinarians. Be sure to bring any medical records you may have, including vaccination records, with you to this first appointment. You can expect your pet to receive a thorough physical exam. We will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and will determine a vaccination schedule that suits your pet.

Pet Vaccinations

At 8 weeks of age, your puppy needs to be vaccinated for distemper, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and hepatitis. After these initial important vaccinations, your puppy will need follow-up boosters at 12 weeks, plus a rabies vaccination at 16 weeks. Additional vaccinations may also be recommended depending on your pet’s lifestyle.

Kittens receive a FVRCP vaccination at their first visit at 8 weeks, with two follow-up boosters plus a rabies vaccination at 16 weeks. Dr. DeRose may also recommend the feline leukemia vaccine, depending on your cat’s lifestyle.

Spaying or Neutering

Spaying or neutering your pet is done at 6 months of age. This is recommended for females as it prevents pregnancy, uterine infections, breast tumours and behavioural issues. In males, it prevents prostate disease and tumours, as well as behavioural problems and marking behaviours.

Local Resources for Training, Boarding & Grooming

If you have a new puppy and are looking for training resources, we recommend: